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NHS CB call for local emergency services

Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) will “shape emergency services for the future”, as plans for a new national framework are revealed.

A review from the NHS Commissioning Board (NHS CB) will suggest more emergency services move into the community.

Sir Bruce Keogh, medical director of the NHS CB will lead the review.

He said: “Treatments for many common conditions such as heart attacks and strokes have evolved considerably over the last decade and are now best treated in specialist centres.

“This makes me think we need to review the increasingly complex and fragmented system of urgent and emergency care, so that sick, anxious and often frightened people can get what they need when they need it.”

The NHS CB has said it will work with CCGs to develop a national framework and improve local access to services for less serious problems.

Dr Peter Carter, Royal College of Nursing (RCN) chief executive and general secretary said: “While we support the move to provide more care at home and away from hospitals, there needs to be a sustained investment in community services, which is not currently happening.

“We would also urge the Government to focus on ensuring there are adequate numbers of health care staff to deliver the best possible patient care.”

Late last year the NHS CB said it would review urgent and emergency care as part of plans for more seven-day services.

The NHS CB plans to publish principles for consultation in the Spring.